By now, we’ve all heard that this fall was lassoed by the Wild, Wild, West. However, beyond the coolest western accessories like the timeless western belt, designers and big brands are pulling out all the stops, creating belts that work as the centerpiece for any outfit. Notoriously, Kaia Gerber has sported “rebellious” looks this fall marked by even cooler belts, like this safety-buckle belt.
Until this season, I was, completely and totally, anti-belt. I thought they looked nerdy, served zero purpose (just buy pants that fit), and shouted "I still shop exclusively at Hollister!" (#nojudgement). Then, last summer, as I sat outside Saatchi Gallery in London, "paying attention" in class, I saw the perfect belted outfit. One girl, confidently striding toward the front doors, wore a high-pony, dark, oval sunglasses, a cropped black turtle-neck, loose, vintage ashy-dark-wash Levis, black loafers, and a simple black leather belt with a big square buckle. I had almost all of those items in my wardrobe – all except the belt. I needed it. It was an emergency.
Finding that belt was a struggle – and I'm still not completely satisfied. But, summer was fleeting and then came fall. This season spoke to me, loud and clear, declaring belts as seriously cool, calling me to step up my belt game and expand my collection.
Below are some of my favorite belts from this fall. Some playing on the western trend, others bringing back '80s-nostalgia, and even some S&M vibes. If I've learned anything on this latest style journey, it's that there's a belt for everyone – don't get strapped down by old habits and outdated opinions. Just hold onto those sock boots, and ride out FW2017 in the most bangin' belt you can find.
